Hbrhunter Business Review

SEPTEMBER 2021 VOLUME 17 NUMBER 8 Print Post Approved 100002454 mag.com.au 17TH YEAR OF PUBLICATION HBRHunter Business Review

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SEPTEMBER 2021 | 3 From the Editor

As I began to think about As well as the health of staff in terms of catching COVID, writing this column, I was initially business owners and the wider community must also consider determined to not discuss the the mental health of individuals, particularly in terms of lockdown COVID situation again but it does and the associated challenges it brings such as home schooling. indeed permeate almost every In terms of mental health, we also need to acknowledge that business and political decision. people hate the unknown and it increases anxiety in most people. In today’s rapidly changing A clear COVID business plan will not eliminate this anxiety but world, it is never easy to make will definitely help. See the story on page 17 for some further accurate forecasts beyond the discussion. very short term, but COVID has Our thoughts are with all those struggling at the moment and brought the difficulty in business hope that very soon the way out of COVID management will be planning to a whole new level. clearer and we move to a new normal. It seems increasingly apparent that we will need to live with COVID for the foreseeable future Garry Hardie and act to minimise its impacts. Publisher & Editor Perhaps, with the help of an increased focus on hygiene, the total deaths and hospitalisations from contagious diseases may even decrease from pre-COVID rates. It appears that NSW is planning a stepped reopening, with ON THIS MONTH’S COVER substantial changes starting from around mid-October. Fully Environmental Officer Hayley Ardagh vaccinated people are likely to have more freedoms earlier. This from Newcastle Coal Infrastructure will no doubt attract the ire from some people but is a sensible Group (NCIG). approach in risk management. NCIG was the winner of the Gold Safety Some businesses are also looking at making full vaccinations Helmet in the WHS Business of the Year compulsory for their staff. Whether a particular business can category at the recently announced bring in these rules is not completely clear cut but a subject that Hunter Safety Awards. See page 22 for further details. business owners need to consider. A story on page 24 of this issue discusses this subject further.

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4 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR business news

Community frocks up to raise vital funds

After having to cancel last year’s Pink Race Day due to COVID-19, ClubsNSW and the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation (HBCF) were grateful the 2021 event could go ahead, raising $90,000 for HBCF. Whilst the recent COVID-19 restrictions posed an impact on the event, the Newcastle Jockey Club, ClubsNSW and HBCF made necessary arrangements to ensure all participants were safe. President of ClubsNSW in the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region, Scott Williams said that the health and safety of the community is paramount. “COVID-19 had taught us all to be agile and adaptable particularly when organising an event. Rather than postponing the day, we made the necessary modifications so that all attendees were safe,” Scott said. Being a community funded charity, HBCF relies on the support of days like Pink Race Day to be able to continue the work they do in the local community. HBCF’s General Manager, Ellie Wells said whilst COVID-19 has presented many challenges for the foundation, the local community has continued to be extremely supportive. Abbey McDonell, Gracyn Endacott & Claudia Even though the event could only host half of its attendees, the Tolhurst at Pink Race Day, Pink Race Day 2021 day was still able to raise more than $90,000 to support HBCF and the work they do within the local community. Pink Race Day acknowledges the longstanding partnership “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported us on between Clubs of Newcastle and HBCF. Since 2009, Pink Race Day the day. Whether that was through attending the event, donating has raised more than $370,000 to help HBCF continue to provide a prize or a virtual donation your contribution makes a significant vital services to individuals and families as they navigate their way difference to the work we do,” Ellie said. through breast cancer.

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SEPTEMBER 2021 | 5 HBR business news

Continued activation Work is about dining experiences inspired by the local agricultural heritage and, to start to triple of course, winemaking, distilling and brewing. of unused space in the number of The proposed $107 million project will bring 68,045 additional National Park basketball courts visitors to the region and inject an additional $33 million each located within year, according to the REMPLAN economic modelling. inner Newcastle’s National Park. Development plans for Cedar Mill Hunter Valley will be lodged Newcastle City Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the decision to in the coming months, with the construction phase projected add four basketball courts was based on the popularity of the to create over 500 new jobs (215 direct, 285 indirect) and inject existing courts since opening in September last year. $207.5 million through build costs, job creation, supply chain and “Each weekend, hundreds of mostly young people flock to consumption. National Park to use the blue basketball courts and the green Winarch Capital CEO, Paul Lambess, said once Cedar Mill Hunter space located on the site of the former bowling club building,” Cr Valley opens its doors it will create hundreds of new jobs and Nelmes said. bolster the local economy, and the events and tourism sectors. “Based on the demand, we’re continuing our re-activation of the Cedar Mill is also actively searching for future sites across former tennis courts located near the corner of National Park and Australia. Parry Streets by increasing the total number of basketball courts to six. “By delivering four additional courts, we’re increasing the Financial Advice On 11th August 2021, opportunity for our community to get outdoors to participate in Armcrest Financial casual sport and exercise.” leaders join Advice merged with Seating, shade shelters and a drinking fountain will also be Newcastle Financial installed as part of the work, with lighting to be considered Planning Group (NFPG). during the development of the National Park Plan of NFPG forms part of Coastal Advice Group (CAG), a leading financial Management and associated Landscape Masterplan. planning practice operating across four locations in New South Wales: The Lord Mayor said the long-term future of the space would be Central Coast, Sydney, Port Macquarie and Newcastle. determined through the National Park Plan of Management and Daniel Brown, CEO of CAG, said the merging of the two advice Landscape Masterplan. businesses will allow them to further expand their skillset and experience to deliver even more value to the existing clients of Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and young basketballers shoot hoops at the two businesses as well as future clients. the opening of the existing National Park basketball courts (September 2020). “This acquisition increases the scale and depth of experience in our advice team which will only benefit our clients’ lives. As a growing team, we are always looking for ways we can provide better services, greater support and more resources to our collective clients.” Tom Momsen, Managing Director of Armcrest Financial Planning, has 14 years’ experience in the financial advice industry and is excited about uniting with CAG to be able to support more Novocastrians. “The entire Armcrest team is really excited by this merge and to join forces with such a highly motivated team. We have some big developments coming over the next 12 months and we are confident this will only result in better outcomes for all.” Following the official merger, Tom has now moved into the role of Head of Advice and Senior Financial Adviser where he will coordinate and mentor all the financial advisers across CAG while Cedar Mill Group Winarch Capital’s still servicing his valued client base. Tom is joined by two advice Cedar Mill Group support staff including a Paraplanner/Head of Compliance and a acquires Pokolbin has acquired a Client Success Manager. site for amphitheatre premium Tom and Daniel have had a professional relationship for 14 years development site and have previously worked together. Daniel said he is looking and tourism project in Pokolbin for its forward to seeing the new dynamic that Tom will bring to the second purpose- CAG team. built outdoor amphitheatre and tourism project, expected to CAG is currently opening a new advice practice in Port open in 2023 at a cost of $107 million. Macquarie and has plans to establish additional practices on the It follows the previously announced $235 million Mid-North Coast. redevelopment of Morisset Golf Course, to be known as Cedar Mill Lake Macquarie, with plans for a 30,000 person concert venue, Tom Momsen and Daniel Brown cafes and restaurants, accommodation and Australia’s largest aquatic play park. The new property is on the corner of Broke and McDonalds Roads and sits adjacent to the Roche Estate food and beverage precinct and next to the Hope Estate winery. There are plans for Cedar Mill Hunter Valley to house a 100-bed hotel, specialist food and beverage, a wine museum, multiple cellar doors and a 22,000 person concert venue to host events from some of the biggest local and international acts touring Australia. The vision for the site includes the delivery of a venue that is also capable of hosting events, conferences and functions, and attract tourists seeking high-end visitor experiences. This includes local growers and operators providing boutique goods and

6 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR business news

Newcastle to The City of Newcastle The Federal Government is investing $190 million in the has joined the Federal Recycling Modernisation Fund (RMF), which together with state benefit from $24 Government’s and industry investment will generate more than $600 million in million recycling transformation of recycling infrastructure. Australia’s recycling infrastructure fund industry as one of 22 NSW projects Hunter Valley funded jointly by the Federal and State Governments. dominates Shiraz Federal Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley announced $24 million in funding in a statewide infrastructure roll out that will and Semillon at increase the state’s recycling capacity by 120,000 tonnes a year, Australian wine and generate industry investment of $59 million. “This is about easing pressure on our environment and taking awards responsibility for our waste by recycling more materials, creating The Hunter Valley wine region more jobs and driving economic investment. has again taken out two of the Liberal Patron Senator for the Hunter Region Hollie Hughes said prestigious top varietal awards at “this project will establish a new $40 million regional Materials this year’s 2022 Halliday Wine Recovery Facility (MRF) at the Summerhill Waste Management Companion Awards. Centre (SWMC) to recycle waste glass, plastic, tyres, paper and For the second year in a row, and the cardboard in Newcastle. third time in seven years, the Hunter “I am delighted to announce that the Summerhill Waste Valley has won the best Shiraz of the Management Centre in Wallsend will be playing its part in year with the 2019 Tyrrell’s 4 Acres Shiraz transforming our recycling capacity. claiming the title. Semillon of the Year was “The Australian and NSW governments have co-invested $5 awarded to Meerea Park for their 2011 million for this project ($2.5 million each), and industry has Alexander Munro Individual Vineyard Aged contributed a further $35.8 million. This is about easing pressure Release Semillon. on our environment by recycling more materials including These awards cement the Hunter Valley’s reputation for plastics, tyres, glass, cardboard and even coffee cups, and producing world class Shiraz and Semillon varietals. This importantly it is about creating jobs and economic investment. significant result for the Hunter Valley comes on the back of the "This funding and these new projects will help to boost our Brokenwood win at the 2021 awards for the Brokenwood existing recycling capabilities, supportive innovative re-use of Graveyard Shiraz 2018. Two of the three finalists for 2022 Shiraz of recycled materials and boost NSW’s recycling capacity,” said the Year came from the Hunter Valley: Tyrrell’s and Mount Pleasant. Senator Hughes.

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New alliance for The Hele family own listed buildings and in the surrounding landscape over the years. Hunter Valley’s longest “The Museum’s transformation will continue following the mass Hunter Valley Resort continuously operating planting of various native tree species in four sections of Museum hospitality venue Park yesterday as part of the Museum's Living Labels project, Ms celebrating its 30th anniversary on 1 August and are taking Baird said. things to new heights, announcing an alliance with the northern “The trees and shrubs planted relate directly to objects within the beaches 4 Pines Brewing brand. Museum’s collection and offer a new way to interpret and understand Hunter Valley Resort’s Philip Helé OAM is a name long associated Newcastle’s geography and history, providing a living connection with hospitality. His family hail from Denmark. Helé’s Great between the natural landscape and the stories of our past. Grandparents owned the famous Grand Hotel in Copenhagen, “We plan to celebrate the Museum’s significant milestone his hotelier Grandparents were the official caterer to the King with activities across the next 12 months, kicking off with a 10th Frederik IV of Denmark and Queen Ingrid for many years, and his anniversary exhibition showcasing specially commissioned works by parents both worked for the Hilton Hotels group worldwide until much-loved local artist Trevor Dickinson, whose colourful, larger-than- settling in Australia in the 1960’s life murals including the Newcastle Museum Photowall have formed After years of owning hotels such as The Sackville in Balmain, such an intrinsic part of the Museum and its surrounds.” The Ascot in Wahroonga, Bel Air in Newcastle and the Yachtsman in Lake Macquarie, was the creation of the quintessential New approach to New research to Australian Grill with buffet. tackle one of It was 1991 when they purchased the Hunter Valley Resort tackling mosquito- Australia’s most on Hermitage Road, they brought bistro dining to the Hunter borne disease in the prolific mosquitos, Valley. Now, the Helé’s are taking bistro dining up another responsible for notch, working with the team at 4 Pines Brewing to bring their Hunter spreading most cases established brand to the Hunter Valley. Also being rebranded is of Ross River virus, has the Adventure Centre, now known as the Hunter Farm. commenced in the Hunter. No strangers to the brewery business, the Helé’s together The three-year project, between the University of Newcastle, with advertising guru John Singleton launched the region’s first Australia’s national science agency CSIRO, the NSW Department craft brewery Bluetongue, which started a shift in offerings in of Health and the University of Melbourne, will use genomic the state’s most visited regional destination that was previously sequencing to inform suppression strategies for the Aedes vigilax primarily known as a wine region. mosquito. In 2014, Phil Helé was awarded the Order of Australia Medal The Aedes vigilax is one of the most widespread mosquito (OAM) for services to Australian Tourism and the Hunter Valley for species in Australia predominantly originating from coastal his contribution to tourism in the region. wetlands like salt marshes, mangroves and swamps. It can fly many kilometres within a lifetime and spreads the Ross River virus, the most reported mosquito-borne disease in Australia with more than 4,000 cases reported yearly. CSIRO research scientist Dr Brendan Trewin said the project would be underpinned by new advances in genomic sequencing. “Advances in technology mean we can sequence tiny amounts of DNA to track genetic differences of individual mosquito genomes and find distinct populations – a technique which has not been applied to this species before,” Dr Trewin said. “This information will provide the foundation for the next phase of the project, which will assess the feasibility of controlling the Hunter Aedes vigilax population with Wolbachia, a natural Newcastle Museum It's welcomed almost bacteria which has been successfully used to suppress vector- 1.5 million visitors, won borne disease in over 13 countries including here in Australia.” notches up 10 years 20 state and national Using this genomic sequence approach, the team will be able at Honeysuckle awards, displayed 71 to look at closely related mosquito populations in finer detail and exhibitions and held determine relationships within and between populations in the thousands of special events – but after a decade at Honeysuckle Hunter estuary, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and throughout there's still more to discover at Newcastle Museum. Australia. 4 August marked the 10th anniversary since the Museum Dr Toby Mills, researcher from the University of Newcastle’s School opened its doors at Honeysuckle after transforming the former of Environmental and Life Sciences, said the study was an important Railway Workshops into a state-of-the-art cultural facility. step towards informing decision making efforts to control mosquito Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Newcastle Museum populations in the Hunter and elsewhere across Australia. is one of the jewels in the city's cultural crown. “The project is a part of the University of Newcastle’s Grand “Newcastle Museum plays a key role in the rich diversity of Challenge, to reduce the burden that mosquitoes impose on human experiences that help attract visitors to our city," Cr Nelmes said. health and lessen the nuisance factor inflicted by mosquitoes in urban "The award-winning Museum is on the cutting edge of areas, including the Callaghan campus,” Dr Mills said. contemporary museum practice and has been nationally recognised “Following on from the collaborative genomics and trapping for its innovative exhibitions, which create insightful and immersive program we will also be running a bi-monthly surveillance ways to interpret and preserve our city’s fascinating history. program through autumn, winter and spring to identify the "Upgrading and expanding this critical facility through its move presence of the mosquito ‘off-season’. to Honeysuckle saw the Museum become a cornerstone of the “In addition, we have developed an insectary and established wider Civic cultural precinct. Aedes vigilax colonies to further the research aims of the project.” "I'm proud to see how much it has achieved during the past CSIRO has extensive expertise working with communities across 10 years and I can't wait to experience what else it has in store Australia to prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. A during the next decade and beyond." 2018 landmark trial led by CSIRO, Verily and James Cook University Newcastle Museum Director Julie Baird said it had been amazing successfully eradicated more than 80% of the invasive disease- to see the transformation both within the Museum's Heritage- spreading Aedes aegypti mosquito in Innisfail, Queensland.

8 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR business news

Port of Newcastle With trade worth the 9000 positions the Port directly and indirectly supports now, and prosperity of the Hunter build a prosperous local, state and national economy.” sets its sights on and much of regional Furthermore, the Multi-purpose Deepwater Terminal investment diversifying for the NSW, is tied to the global would provide a viable alternative and more cost-effective export trade gateway that Port of route for regional NSW farmers and manufacturers. future Newcastle provides. “A container terminal at Newcastle would increase regional “We have handled NSW global competitiveness and allow these suppliers to avoid a mix of trade for 222 years and bring more than 25 different congested Sydney supply chains. A win-win for the region and cargoes through our deepwater global gateway, but we have our regional NSW,” said Craig. sights set on more,” shares Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody. For more on Port of Newcastle’s activities and plans, visit “As the world’s largest coal exporting port, it is imperative www.portofnewcastle.com.au or follow the Port on Instagram, for Port of Newcastle to focus on diversification to ensure a Facebook or LinkedIn. sustainable and economically resilient business for the future.” To achieve this diversification and improve its existing operations, Port of Newcastle has plans to invest millions of dollars in new infrastructure over the next five years. Greater Bank awarded for “These investments, such as the Port’s recent announcement of the commitment to customer $28.4-million purchase of two Leibbher LHM 550 Mobile Harbour Cranes and associated infrastructure, will support diversification at service the Port, improve efficiency in our operations, open the door to new Greater Bank’s commitment to outstanding service customers and trade and create local jobs,” said Craig. has again been recognised, this time as part of Canstar’s “We are future-focused and community minded, and our 2021 Customer Service Awards. The Hunter-based strategic plans will pull levers that work to enable local and financial institution picked up two Most Satisfied Australia-wide producers, businesses and manufacturers to more Customer Awards - Customer Owned Bank and Online successfully compete in international markets.” Banking. Further underpinning the Port’s future diversification plans is This latest recognition comes on the back of the the expansion of clean energy trade and the game-changing recently announced Money Magazine 2021 Consumer $2.4-billion Multi-purpose Deepwater Terminal project. Finance Awards, where Greater Bank was named “We are firmly focused on seizing opportunities such as the Customer-Owned Institution of the Year, and the 2021 container terminal, that will create a broad mix of trade opportunities Mozo People’s Choice Awards, where it received five that can help to support our local industry, boost jobs in addition to awards in the banking category. Canstar’s Customer Satisfaction Awards are based on how content customers are with a particular financial institution and complement its Star Ratings and Awards that are calculated by Canstar’s expert researchers. Greater Bank Chief Executive Officer, Scott Morgan, said the customer-owned bank’s principals of mutuality and customer-centric values have long been its ‘North Star’ that guides the organisation as it works to provide customers and the communities it serves with banking solutions that genuinely meet their needs.

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Community shapes City of Newcastle has released its new vision for updated vision for Newcastle's Harbour Newcastle's Harbour Foreshore including Foreshore a revised concept for Foreshore Park, showing an additional 4,000 sqm of playspace with more picnic areas, trees and gardens, cycleways, as well as new plans for the Wharf Road Precinct. The updated concept includes increasing the size of the fenced regional-level accessible and inclusive playground, a significant waterplay space, a cultural heritage walk that links back to Newcastle’s Indigenous heritage, and improvements along Wharf supply for our region that caters for growth and can respond to the Road and Tug Berth Lane. Tree planting is planned throughout impacts of drought and climate variability,” Darren continued. the inclusive playspace and the concept plan proposes a formal The approved Belmont plant’s water production capacity is tree grove, which will link the two event spaces, The Grove and double that originally proposed. The plant was increased from 15 The Commons. Additional planting of an avenue of trees is million litres per day to 30 million litres per day to provide greater proposed along Wharf Road. drought security and reliability, improve efficiency and deliver Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said that the revised concept, presented greater value for money for the Lower Hunter community. to the Harbour Foreshore Community Reference Group, includes a The planning approval also confirms the direct ocean seawater number of key changes to the preliminary concept plan based on intake system, which involves piping seawater from a kilometre community consultation undertaken earlier this year. offshore. "This project is a great example of City of Newcastle working The approval is supported by comprehensive environmental with our community to deliver its first regional-level recreational impact investigations, which indicated that potential impacts can park and flexible open space that meets the needs and wants of be mitigated through detailed design and delivery. those who will use Foreshore Park into the future," Cr Nelmes said. The planning work for the desalination plant has been "Our community provided valuable feedback which has helped considered in the review of the Lower Hunter Water Security Plan, shape the revised plans for Foreshore Park and I’d like to thank which is exploring a range of supply and demand options for the everyone who provided input, particularly our Community Lower Hunter community. Reference Group members. "In direct response to the community's feedback, revisions to the concept for Foreshore Park include the relocation of the Entrepreneurs set to inclusive 'Variety Livvi's Place' playspace and adjoining amenities, bolster local economy and provision for a multi-purpose rollerskating, scooting and performing arts area. Thirty talented and entrepreneurial individuals have been "We've also developed a concept plan to turn the Wharf Road selected to relocate to Newcastle as part of an Australian-first Precinct into a world-class harbourside esplanade. We are doing this economic stimulus program. by improving the Joy Cummings promenade, parklands, connecting The City’s ‘New Move’ talent attraction program pathways and cycling infrastructure, improving access to the area, and incentivised skilled professionals in existing and emerging creating new opportunities for our community and visitors to make industries to relocate to Newcastle with a $10,000 grant to the most of the magnificent waterfront location.” be spent in the Local Government Area. Over 460 expressions of interest were received from around the globe including the Netherlands, Mexico, Hong Kong, Canada and India. Hunter Water Hunter Water The '10,000 Reasons' digital marketing campaign has been has welcomed viewed more than 5.5 million times, effectively promoting welcomes planning the NSW Newcastle as a city of opportunity. Government’s approval for Belmont The successful applicants bring expertise and investment announcement in areas such as clean energy, defence, health and tech desalination plant that planning development like artificial intelligence, virtual and approval has been augmented reality. Several are start-up founders and will be issued by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment establishing their business ventures in Newcastle. for a desalination plant at Belmont to produce up to 30 million At the same time as the New Move Program, City of Newcastle litres a day of drinking water in response to drought. is investing almost $400,000 in local training to connect Hunter Water Managing Director, Darren Cleary, said the locals with Newcastle’s emerging economic opportunities. approval provides an additional source of safe and reliable The NewSkills training program will be delivered by specialist drinking water for the region in the event of a severe drought. training providers through workshops, self-paced learning, “Desalination is one of only a few water supply options that is intensive programs and mentoring over the next 12 months. rainfall independent, helping us to continue to support our customers From assisting businesses to become more inclusive, to and communities regardless of changes in weather or climate. building resilience to market disruptions including COVID-19, “The Lower Hunter community gained a sense of what a the NewSkills training programs seek to close skills gaps in the prolonged and severe drought would be like when we all local workforce. experienced the most recent drought through 2019-2020, which NewSkills follows the City’s highly successful Tourism Product saw the introduction of water restrictions for the first time in Development Program which provided 15 local businesses many decades,” said Darren. with training and business mentoring to develop new visitor “The Belmont plant is now part of our region’s ongoing water experiences and products that leverage Newcastle’s unique security package. Hunter Water is finalising the review of the offering to visitors, to sustain and grow Newcastle’s visitor Lower Hunter Water Security Plan, which will outline additional economy. proposed supply and demand measures to ensure a resilient water

10 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR business news

Council saves $70k, Water saving the pool liner at Tomaree Aquatic Centre with a new fibreglass measures pool liner, which saved water in the process,” Mr Crosdale said. 71 Olympic swimming implemented Port Stephens Council will continue to work with Hunter pools of water in one in the 2019- Water to identify opportunities to reduce our demand on water 20 financial year resources including using bore water, raw water or recycled water year have saved Port for drinking water where appropriate. Stephens Council $69,880 and 71 Olympic swimming pools of water according to Local electrician and water consumption data. Rebrand for business owner, Troy General Manager Wayne Wallis says the 178 ML saving in just one local electrician Powell, is celebrating 40 year has financial and environmental benefits for the community. years in the electrical “Given the water restriction measures in place during the 2019- industry this year with a major company rebrand. 20 financial year, we developed a Drought Resilience Team to Previously part of the Platinum Electricians franchise, Founder not only look at how we could save water but what we could do and Director Troy Powell decided to mark four decades by across all our major sites. branching off his Newcastle division with a complete brand re- “The data told us that our annual drinking water consumption haul. The business is now operating under the name Powellect. was between 217 ML and 268 ML across the Port Stephens local “Joining a franchise provided me with the support I needed to government area — with our holiday parks making up almost get started in business and I will be forever grateful for that. It set 39% of annual consumption, followed by sporting facilities and the foundations for me and what it means to have a successful aquatic centres,” he said. business,” Troy said. Acting Facilities and Services Group Manager Tim Crosdale says “Which is really that communication is paramount to a upgrades to Council infrastructure are also responsible for the savings. successful customer relationship, whilst integrity is the basis upon “We are currently rolling out our biggest Capital Works program which that relationship is built.” ever across the region. The rebrand and rename represents a significant step in the “Most of these water savings have been achieved by fixing leaks, company’s evolution, a locally owned company. upgrading water pipes and installing irrigation timing systems The new brand was developed through a particularly in our holiday parks and recreation areas. collaborative process and reflects Troy’s passion “As we replace aging infrastructure, we will install the most up- for the industry and his years of experience. to-date water saving features. A great example is the upgrade at “This change has been made possible by Fingal Bay Holiday Park where we’re constructing a new amenities our loyal customers and is very much building with water saving features. appreciated. We will continue to provide our “We also worked with Sports Councils to see how water clients with the best service we can and look consumption could be reduced on our playing fields and replaced forward to positive times ahead,” he said.

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SEPTEMBER 2021 | 11 HBR business news

Green light for MidCoast It was a win for with community groups, landholders and other government the local environment agencies, to protect our environment”. environment in the 28 July They follow the adoption of MidCoast Council’s Climate Change MidCoast council Policy earlier this year. meeting, when a series of programs and plans focussed on Approval was also given in the July council meeting to proceed protecting, maintaining and restoring natural assets were with a region-wide Vegetation Management Policy, along with adopted for implementation. the adoption of a flying-fox camp management plan targeting The green light was given to the region’s first Biodiversity areas in Forster, Pacific Palms, Smiths Lake and Hawks Nest. The Framework, a roadmap that outlines a consolidated approach to Vegetation Management Policy focuses on retaining significant conserving our natural heritage, along with the Manning River trees and tracts of mature vegetation through a targeted Estuary and Catchment Management Program, and the Greening approach. Once introduced later this year, it will replace the Strategy. All three programs come off the back of extensive existing Tree Preservation Order in the Great Lakes region. community consultation. “This is an outstanding result and the culmination of a significant Newcastle researcher-led team developing defences body of work, undertaken not only by staff over months and in some for the battleground of the future cases years, but with the input of a diverse range of stakeholders and community members from across the region”, explained Gerard A team of cognitive scientists, led by Dr Scott Brown and Dr Ami Eidels of the University of Newcastle’s School of Psychological Tuckerman, MidCoast Council’s Manager of Natural Systems. Sciences, has received a grant of $756,538 over three years to help “We now have the tools in place to protect and manage prepare Australia for the battleground of the future – cyberspace. our unique natural environment for future generations, and The project team will investigate the development of robust to enhance the liveability of our towns and villages that the human-bot teams in the pursuit of cybersecurity – a critical area MidCoast is renowned for”. of national defence and one in which bots play a central role due The ten-year Manning River Estuary and Catchment to the sheer volume of malicious attacks that occur. Management Program addresses the impact of land-use on water This project combines the psychological expertise of cognitive quality and ecosystem health. It acknowledges the importance of scientists with the expertise of computer scientists. The team is the river and estuary for recreation, wildlife, clean drinking water, investigating how best to develop trust between humans and bots, to support agriculture, and in delivering cultural connections. as well as ways to ensure the bots present the masses of data they The Greening Strategy outlines a series of actions designed to accrue in a way that doesn’t overload human cognitive capacity. manage and enhance tree canopy cover and green spaces, with a A true cross-disciplinary investigation, Dr Brown’s team consists of eight researchers funded by the Australia–US Multidisciplinary particular focus in built-up areas. University Research Initiative (AUSMURI), who bring together “While each program has its own goals, objectives and outcomes, expertise in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, human- as a suite of documents they provide a solid foundation for computer interaction, psychology, and decision sciences. implementing an on-going series of initiatives, in conjunction

2022 We are currently seeking support for the 2022 edition of HUNTER INVESTMENT the Hunter Business Investment Prospectus, the annual hard copy PROSPECTUS and online publication that promotes the Hunter Region as a smart business, NOW investment and lifestyle choice. SEEKING SUPPORT THE HUNTER SUPPORT WHILE ALSO PROMOTING

YOUR ORGANISATION HUNTER INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 2020 PROSPECTUS INVESTMENT HUNTER 2021 HUNTER For further information please contact Hunter INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS Business Publications Pty Ltd on (02) 4062 8133 or email [email protected]

Have you read the 2021 edition of the Hunter HUNTER INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 2021 PROSPECTUS INVESTMENT HUNTER Investment Prospectus?

HUNTER INVESTMENT The 2021 edition can be read online at YOUR SMART BUSINESS, PROSPECTUS INVESTMENT & LIFESTYLE CHOICE http://www.hunterinvest.com.au

12 | SEPTEMBER 2021 THE SOUND OF THE HUNTER YOUR LOCAL - 2NURFM 103.7

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Commercial landlords doing the Using the National Principles framework, in the case of the example above: heavy lifting as banks enjoy the • If your rent is $1500 + GST per month, your monthly rent is reduced by 30% to $1050.00. This means the rent will profits decrease by $450 + GST per month. 50% of the $450.00 (225.00 + GST) will be waived and, 50% of Steven Dick the $450.00 ($225 + GST) will be deferred. This amount will be Movable repaid across an agreed period. Plus, a tenant in these circumstances is protected from any COVID, COVID, COVID, we just can’t escape it. punitive action under the lease, such as: • Penalty interest When we thought we’d managed the pandemic and outshone • Eviction the world in our handling of COVID-19, it turns around and bites • Lockout us again, and unfortunately commercial property landlords are • Pressure to pay rent being forced to cop the biggest bites, while the banks sit idly by. • Forfeiture of security (bond, bank guarantee) But before we dive into that analysis, let me indulge in a couple of COVID observations. The latest outbreaks have proven the Landlord assistance from the government nature of this beast and that it will always find any chinks in a At this stage, landlord support only amounts to Land Tax dodgy defence. relief for the rent lost should the property owner waver these So now zero case numbers are unattainable, vaccinations have payments. There is talk of up to $3,000 per month. However, this become the go. I’m fully vaxed so that you know. But I can’t help has not yet been decided. feeling I’m just a pawn in some disaster movie wherein two years Most landlords are not mega-corporations. They are mums and there’s an oops sorry from the government: “we thought we were dad’s investors who have saved hard to acquire real estate, and doing the right thing at the time.” It would be a fantastic lead into it is these people who must fund the tenants. Yet, when they a new Zombie Apocalypse movie if it weren’t so real. turn to their financier, will they receive a waiver on their interest liabilities? Not at all, and at best they can hope for is a deferral on Managing with less government support loan repayments. However, in doing this, the banks make more Forget my overactive imagination. We must survive through money in the long run. the pandemic first, and unlike the first wave last year where When the Commonwealth Bank of Australia pats itself on the Government assistance was long, deep, and unquestioning this back for making an $8.7 billion profit, this is wrong given the time round, the money isn’t so widely spread. current pain for some of their customers. Worse is the gloating When it comes to small businesses, some grants are available, that the profits are going to the shareholders, which is also yet landlords are now required to assist struggling tenants WRONG. What is closer to the mark is that the dividends are going without any real relief for their circumstances. to the “Faceless Five”, as described by Andre Leigh in the Sydney Morning Herald a few years ago. These overseas institutional Tenant relief from the landlord investors own 48.98% of one of our biggest banks. For a tenant to activate the landlord’s obligations under the So, to my way of thinking, now is the time for our banks dig Retail and Other Commercial Leases (COVID-19) Amendment deep and assist their supposed customers, especially when at a Regulation 2021, there are several trigger points: minimum, almost half of shareholder earnings are going overseas. 1. The tenant must be a party to a lease before June 26, 2021; and For further information contact Movable on (02) 4915 3000 2. Have an annual turnover of under $50M from the last financial year to June 30, 2021. 3. Qualify for one or more of the following grants: • Micro-business COVID-19 Support Grant. • COVID-19 NSW Business Grant. • Job Saver Grant. Steve Dick is a director of Newcastle’s Moreover, the landlord must use both the regulation and leading residential and commercial real estate firm, Movable. National Cabinet Mandatory Code of Conduct-SME Commercial Leasing Principles During COVID-19 (the National Principles) as a framework. 1. The Lessee must be a qualified COVID Impacted Lessee and supply evidence of such. If you have been approved for Regional housing affordability one of the above grants, you can send us confirmation of your approval as this qualifies you as COVID Impacted. deteriorates faster than capital 2. We will also require some financial information to cities determine your downturn in revenue, which we will evaluate as a percentage. Per Service NSW, to assess your “Housing affordability has deteriorated over the past year downturn in revenue, the following periods can be used. as house prices rose faster than the capacity of the typical 3. A minimum 14-day consecutive period between 26/06/21 household to repay a mortgage,” stated HIA Economist Tom to 28/08/21 inclusive. Newcastle & Hunter lockdown Devitt. commenced at 5 pm on 05/08/21; compared against, HIA’s Affordability Index is calculated for each of the eight 4. The same period in 2019, 2020 or between June 12, 2021, capital cities and regional areas on a quarterly basis and takes into and June 25, 2021. account the latest dwelling prices, mortgage interest rates and Please see below an example of the determination of downturn wage developments. as a percentage, using 2019 revenue: “Affordability deteriorated across all states and territories, • 2021 revenue between 05/08/21 and 19/08/21 $35,000 including both the capital cities and their surrounding regions,” • 2019 revenue between 05/08/19 and 19/08/19 $50,000 added Mr Devitt. This represents a downturn of $15,000 which is 30%, which is “Over the past two decades, housing affordability was a greater the percentage we will use when determining rent relief. challenge in Sydney and Melbourne than the rest of the country.

14 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR property

SALE SALE OR LEASE

NEWCASTLE 205m2 EOI Closing 4pm, 16th Sept 2021. Yet since the pandemic began 30 Yilen Close Beresfield 1,279m2 High profile office/retail space with glass it is the rest of the country that Brand new freehold warehouse with office-Vacant possession shopfront to both Newcastle & Scott Sts. $2,570,000 + GST ALAN TONKS 0474 744 422 has seen a faster deterioration in affordability. Land - 217m² (approx.) zoned B4 Mixed Use “This is not surprising given the SALE LEASE rapid exodus of population out of Sydney and Melbourne to other states and regions. “The number of people who left Sydney and Melbourne in the last year was tens of thousands more than the number of people 2 who arrived. This is not unusual NEWCASTLE 262m First floor open plan office space with nine for Sydney but was a uniquely 1 Cobbans Close, Beresfield From 210m2 offices, kitchenette and amenities. Data Complex of 6 new industrial units with on site parking. damaging development for From $525,000 + GST JASON MORRIS 0425 302 778 Melbourne. cabling & air-conditioning throughout. “In addition to this, Sydney and Melbourne suffered SALE OR LEASE SALE/LEASE disproportionately from the closure of international borders and the associated loss of overseas migrant, student and tourist arrivals. “This is why the deterioration in housing affordability was most 2 acute outside of Sydney and MAYFIELD 230m Melbourne. Commercial/ retail or office opportunity in “Despite this deterioration, prime location with excellent signage 793 Tomago Road, Tomago 71m2 - 400m2 Shell Service Centre offering new showrooms + retail shops. housing is still broadly more From $310,000 + GST STEVE DICK 0425 302 771 affordable than the average of the past 20 years, due to the record LEASE LEASE low interest rates making it easier to service a typical mortgage,” concluded Mr Devitt. The most significant deterioration in affordability in the capital cities occurred in Hobart, with 2 an 18.7% decline in 2020/21. This HONEYSUCKLE 88m was followed by Darwin (-13.0%), Premium ground floor office with glass Canberra (-10.2%), Adelaide shopfront and ducted A/C throughout. 2 (-8.7%), Brisbane (-6.3%) and Perth 137-139 Maitland Road, Mayfield 334m Newly refurbished on busy road with (8) secure car parks. (-5.5%). Affordability in Sydney and SALE Lease $85,000pa + OGs + GST STEVE DICK 0425 302 771 Melbourne declined by just 3.3% and 3.8% respectively. LEASE Across the regions, regional New South Wales saw the biggest deterioration in affordability in the nation, down by 22.8% over the year. This was followed by regional HAMILTON Land - 226m2 Tasmania (-13.6%), regional Multi tenanted brick commercial building Queensland (-10.3%), regional with a net lettable area of 400m2 (approx.). Northern Territory (-8.6%), regional South Australia (-8.1%), and DAVID ROGERS 0425 267 111 2/38 Shipley Drive Rutherford 520m2 regional Victoria (-6.5%). Regional Modern industrial unit with showroom, warehouse and exposure. Western Australia saw the smallest 02 4969 8000 Lease $49,000pa + OGs + GST PAUL TILDEN 0425 302 772 deterioration, with affordability www.dowlingcommerical.com.au declining by just 0.6% for the year.

SEPTEMBER 2021 | 15 HBR newhealth appointments & safety

LAMBOURNE PARTNERS DIAMOND IT Lambourne Partners has welcomed Diamond IT has appointed David Ron Holmes to its Wealth division to Howdle as Project and Business advise on portfolio construction. Ron Improvement Lead. With a career in has 37 years’ experience in the wealth technology spanning over 25 years, advisory industry and specialises in David has extensive experience in fund and investment asset analysis. Ron disciplines including architecture design, commenced his role with Lambourne infrastructure management, project Partners the first week of August. management, service delivery, software development and product management. At Diamond IT, David is responsible for initiating, managing and evaluating internal and customer facing projects and activities to promote a culture of continuous improvement and learning.

AUST. BUSINESS LAWYERS & MORAY & AGNEW ADVISORS Moray & Agnew Newcastle has Head of ABLA’s Corporate and welcomed special counsel Ashley Commercial team in Newcastle, Suzie Cooper back to its construction & Leask, has been appointed as a Director projects team. A skilled lawyer with of the national firm. Suzie advises private, 10 years’ experience, Ashley previously government and not-for-profit clients in worked in the construction & projects a broad range of sectors on all aspects of team for 5 years, before moving to corporate and commercial law. She joined an in-house legal counsel role in one ABLA after working for a top-tier Sydney of Australia’s leading logistics and law firm and as in-house Legal Counsel supply chain companies in 2016. for a global firm. Her expertise has been Ashley practices in construction and recognised in several awards including commercial law, principally with NSW Women Lawyers’ Private Practice a focus on construction contracts, Lawyer of The Year. security of payment legislation, and commercial disputes.

MONTEATH & POWYS REGIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK Monteath & Powys has announced Regional Australia Bank has appointed that one of the rising stars of the Mark Amos as Senior Manager spatial industry, Matt Richardson has Business Development. Mark is well become a shareholder. Matt started known in the local financial services with Monteath & Powys as part of the sector having worked for CBA for 19 University of Newcastle Scholarship years, PSI/ Nationwide Superannuation program, quickly establishing himself Fund for 6 years and the GM for JSA as a leader within the organisation Group for the past 14 years. Regional and a leader within the surveying and Australia Bank is a customer owned spatial industry. Matt’s tailor made bank with roots in regional NSW and 3D solutions have been integral to has grown to be one of the premier the success of many major projects banking alternatives to the ‘Big Four’ throughout NSW. banks.

AUST. BUSINESS LAWYERS & BUSINESS HUNTER ADVISORS Amanda Watson has joined Business Kyle Scott has been appointed as a Hunter as Policy and Public Affairs Director of the national firm. Kyle is Law Manager. Amanda has extensive Society of NSW Accredited Specialist in experience in strategic communication, employment and industrial relations law. media, member relations, and policy and He has more than a decade’s experience governance. Her career includes close to in managing complex terminations, ten years in executive advisory roles in enterprise bargaining, award compliance, higher education, as well as similar roles post-employment restraints and across government, business, health and employment litigation. His expertise not-for-profit sectors. Business Hunter is demonstrated by the fact that he is welcomes Amanda and looks forward recommended in the Doyles Guide and to her contribution to the interests of the Legal 500 Asia and Pacific lists of top Business Hunter, their members and the employment lawyers. region.

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16 | SEPTEMBERMARCH 2019 2021 HBR health & safety

introspection about organisational values as well as concerted PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY effort to change. Everyone, especially the leaders, can choose to support risk-taking and individuality, be clear and kind when IN TIMES OF COVID people make a mistake, and foster openness and cooperation. Julia Koller Smith Safe Work Australia describe the key hazards to psychological NewPsych Psychologists health and safety at work as high or very low job demands, low job control, poor supervisor and co-worker support, poor The Wellbeing Lab’s 2019-2021 Workplace Report of findings workplace relationships, role conflict and ambiguity, poorly from a representative sample of full-time workers across Australia managed change, low recognition and reward, injustice, bullying provides helpful insights into the impact of COVID on worker harassment and violence, and poor environmental conditions. wellbeing, defined as “the ability to feel good and function Covid has impacted upon these hazards as workplaces rapidly effectively”. The results found that over the past year, the adjust to working from home, changes to workload and hours, proportion of workers stating they would never speak up if they rapid changes and organisational decision-making over which were struggling has doubled to 40%, and those who didn’t share employees may have had limited control or input, as well as less their struggles were significantly more likely to report lower levels contact with co-workers and managers. of psychological safety in the workplace. Safe Work Australia present a systematic approach to ensuring Professor Amy C. Edmonson of the Harvard Business School is people’s psychological health and safety in the workplace, an expert of psychological safety, defined as "a belief that one encompassing three elements: will not be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, 1. Prevent Harm – identify, assess and minimise risks in questions, concerns, or mistakes." Psychological safety is the key consultation with workers to optimal team and organisational performance, as well as being 2. Intervene Early – identify early signs of increased a crucial aspect of individual wellbeing. Prof Edmonson suggests psychological stress or risk and provide additional support the psychological safety of an organisation can be measured 3. Support Recovery – timely support and ongoing monitoring across four dimensions; to ensure strategies are effective 1. Attitude to risk and failure – do team members feel there An effective Employee Assistance Program (EAP) assists is space to make mistakes? organisations in all three of these areas, through mental 2. Open conversations – are people able to talk openly about health and wellbeing sessions promoting wellness, individual difficult things? counselling, and interventions at an organisational and leadership 3. Willingness to help – do team members help each other? level with leader support and training to promote psychological 4. Inclusivity and diversity – can all people be welcomed? safety practices among teams, as well as building understanding Improving an organisation’s psychological safety requires real and skill in supporting positive mental health at work.

Psychological safety builds fearless organisations

NewPsych – helping grow fearlessness across the Hunter 02 49265005 or newpsych.com.au COPING WITH COVID How can we best support ourselves and those around us during COVID? Over three live zoom sessions we discuss how to be better at stress, connect with our values, nurture our relationships and social networks, in order to maintain optimal mental health during COVID. Contact NewPsych to secure this training for your organisation.

SEPTEMBER 2021 | 17 HBR health & safety

Given our recent return to lockdown, there has never been a more important time for businesses to ensure that their people’s exposure to psychological hazards is reduced, and their psychological safety and wellbeing is supported. Use your EAP to promote a workplace that is genuinely supportive of psychological health, safety and overall wellbeing. The evidence from other countries suggests the wave that follows the virus and impacted businesses further beyond the financial costs is psychological distress. Assessing and addressing your business’ psychological safety now is perhaps akin to getting in and vaccinating early.

NewPsych is a leading EAP provider for the Hunter. To discuss what NewPsych can offer to your business, call (02) 4926 5005 or email [email protected].

health and safety. Employers can issue reasonable and lawful Julia Koller Smith works in External Relations at directions to their employees, and employees must comply with NewPsych Psychologists. She has a BPsych(Hons), those directions or face disciplinary action. MBusPsych and is a Member of AHRI. Workers' compensation may be an issue if a business directs vaccinations and then someone suffers an adverse reaction. But if employers don’t encourage vaccination and a staff member contracts COVID-19 at work there can be a risk for the business. WHS obligations don't necessarily require businesses to direct COVID-19: Other employees to be vaccinated but they likely mean businesses need to be encouraging employees to get vaccinated. options for businesses The other minefields for employers are staff who have a valid than mandatory exemption from vaccination, asking for proof of vaccination and whether a business stops doing business with another business vaccinations because their staff aren't vaccinated. Kyle Scott The Privacy Act means an employer generally can’t collect proof Australian Business Lawyers & Advisors of vaccination. As a business, you can refuse to provide services to particular With the Federal Government ruling out mandatory vaccinations, customers, and you can impose requirements on subcontractors a leading Hunter employment lawyer says businesses have other or other businesses - with the exception that if someone has a measures to ensure they can continue to operate ‘more normally’ valid medical exemption. and protect the health of employees, customers, and visitors. If an employee is refusing vaccination on philosophical grounds Vaccination is clearly the way out of economically damaging that would be a disciplinary matter. lockdowns and restrictions. Economists estimate the current Before moving to dismissal businesses can look to redeployment lockdown is costing NSW around $1 billion a week and impacting or alternative working arrangements such as working from home. people’s salaries and businesses bottom line and survival. It is in everyone's interest for employers to facilitate the uptake For more information please contact Kyle on 02 4989 1010 or of vaccinations. email [email protected]. The National Cabinet’s four step plan strongly encourages vaccinations, but except for some high-risk sectors such as aged care, we are unlikely to see vaccinations mandated. We’re likely Kyle Scott heads up the Workplace and Employment team in the ABLA Newcastle office, bringing more than a decade’s to see regulatory measures in some sectors over mandating experience as a specialist employment and industrial vaccination. relations lawyer. Partnering with HR managers, Kyle Mandating vaccinations is not straight-forward for businesses manages complex workplace issues, providing pragmatic and commercially-focussed advice that allows businesses to because of a range of laws including WHS, privacy and mitigate risks and make informed decisions. discrimination laws. The legal test seems straightforward, but its application is very tricky. An analogy is we know smoking cigarettes is bad, can even kill, but an employer can’t or wouldn’t issue a direction to staff Safety leadership for requiring them to give up smoking. Whether it is reasonable to require vaccination depends on the safer organisations risks within the industry, the nature of the work being performed, Sam Robinson and the amount of interaction staff members have with others. LKS Quaero Only after businesses have implemented control measures, and encouraged or incentivised employees to get vaccinated, should In too many organisations, safety is seen as a side concern. they look at mandating vaccinations. It’s viewed as a set of boxes to be ticked rather than a core part Control measures include ensuring and enforcing physical of what every person does at work. Even where organisations distancing, good hygiene, mask wearing, and compliance with are serious about safety, this often stops at the level of being other public health order measures. Incentives to encourage staff compliance-focused or reactive. to get vaccinated include paid leave to go and get vaccinated and It’s vital for every organisation to have leaders who demonstrate other rewards such as vouchers or gifts. strongly, clearly, and often that safety is central to how we operate Under work health and safety (WHS) statutes, businesses have every day. It’s about having the behaviours and systems in place to a legal primary duty of care to employees and worksite visitors get it done right now and generating continuous improvement for to take all steps that are reasonably practicable to ensure their the future. Here’s some advice for getting this done well.

18 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR health & safety

Safety should be a felt responsibility for everyone in your operational safety only. Leaders need to spend time getting the organisation framework right – ignoring policies and procedures in favour of Much of the time, safety is seen as owned by the WHS lead or more exciting safety stuff risks building a shoddy foundation for department only, rather than as a personal or line management safety performance. To get the bigger picture stuff right, we work responsibility. Safety at work concerns everyone, and every with leaders to implement a straightforward safety culture toolkit person needs to understand their part to play. that works on individual, team, and organisational levels. Organisations should develop the skills of safety professionals and non-safety professionals alike to understand, change, Foster a positive, strong safety culture and sustain improvements for their organisations’ current It’s critical to have the right safety culture toolkit in place. But safety culture and performance. Links need to be clarified and that’s not enough. Leaders need to be vulnerable enough so that strengthened between safety systems (including training as well others feel comfortable giving feedback to continually improve. If as your core WHS system), safety symbols, and safety behaviour. you’re a leader, would your people call you out for your behaviour Every organisation should lock on to discretionary effort and get if they didn’t think it was up to scratch? That’s the acid test. If people thinking forward to creating a safe future, not just reacting they wouldn’t, you’ve got some work to do. Setting the stage for to safety incidents as they arise. everyone – team leaders and team members – to do their part means that your team will have the confidence and capability to Leaders create the safety culture that creates the results – contribute to positive safety outcomes. We’re proud to help our good or bad clients sustain strong safety results, and it’s a shift I want to see for Leaders often don’t realise how symbolic their behaviour is to others every single organisation. at work. In order to get the results they want to see, leaders must set the safety standard and refuse to walk past anything that doesn’t For more information on strengthening your organisational meet it. The leaders who drive the strongest safety results engage safety culture, contact LKS Quaero at their people in creating change they believe in and can implement. [email protected] or (02) 4910 4048. The current pandemic presents an opportunity for leaders to demonstrate this every day. This is not just in terms of wearing facemasks indoors, checking in, checking out, and social distancing. It’s also about creating conditions so that people can get help and support if they are struggling with the isolation and Sam Robinson is Managing Director of LKS added pressures that lockdowns can cause. Afterall, mental health Quaero. He works in leadership development, change management, organisational structure, is a critical component of work health and safety. and culture. Sam helps leaders to succeed by It is the responsibility of leaders to put the right conditions in connecting people, relationships, systems, and place for people to work safely. This means that leaders must have structures. He has worked across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. a clear view of strategic risk rather than focusing at the level of

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SEPTEMBER 2021 | 19 HBR health & safety

Locking down fires and fines While Hunter businesses comply with COVID safety lockdowns, with more than four thousand clients, and two decades in operation, lockdowns are placing even greater importance on businesses’ Total Fire Solutions has fielded countless inquiries. Their answers give fire safety and lesser-known changes to fire compliance rules. insight into the industry-leading role it’s committed to. Statistically, disrupted operating hours and absences from the New customers: do businesses always have to upgrade their workplace expose business sites and assets to greater fire risk. fire safety equipment? “Definitely not. Buildings are only required But as Ken Thomas, Managing Director of Total Fire Solutions to comply with the standard applicable at the time of their explains, there’s another reason he’s urging local companies to construction or development approval. It’s usual however to find use lockdown time to ensure they’re fire compliant. those initial compliance requirements haven’t been met. In this “Not only did the fire safety rules change in 2020, but councils instance, our technicians can make any necessary adjustments to are now far more stringent in enforcing them. They’re stepping up meet council-based requirements, add value and mitigate risk, as their inspections and issuing fines for non-compliance and late cost-effectively as possible”. submissions,” Ken said. Existing customers: why are new mandatory changes found With some of those penalties exceeding $2,500 and fire when you’ve been servicing our building for years? “Historically, protection and compliance being complex for businesses we took a maintenance approach to existing fire safety systems to manage themselves, Ken pointed to Total Fire Solutions’ reliant on those having been compliant at time of installation. assurance. “It can be a real minefield for our clients and distract In some cases unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. While from their core business. So we look after everything and back this reflects poorly on the fire protection industry of the past, it that up with a guarantee to pay any fine issued, with the certainty steels our commitment to set the best practice standards for the one won’t be, given our expertise in this field”. industry today”. Those familiar with the process up until now will know an The well-known disruption caused by COVID may be the perfect Annual Fire Safety Statements (AFSS) must be submitted to opportunity to meet the lesser-known new fire safety compliance council to certify their fire safety measures have been adequately requirements of your local council. Might lockdown be a time maintained over the past year and are fit for purpose. to have your fire safety compliancy assessed, so you’re fully However, that AFSS now requires sign-off by a Competent protected against fire and fines? Fire Safety Practitioner (CFSP) and not just the property owner. If you would like more information on the fire compliance rules, This requires the specialist accreditation Total Fire Solutions has or to undertake a fire compliance audit for your business please invested in. This accreditation also holds Total Fire Solutions reach out to Total Fire Solutions. Total Fire Solutions are following accountable for the assessment made, and Ken welcomes this all government COVID safe practices and hygiene to bring you the accountability. “It aligns with our proven commitment to best safest possible methods to ensure the reliability of all your Fire practise and ethics within the fire protection industry,” he said. Protection Systems and equipment. You can reach them on As specialists in commercial and industrial fire safety solutions, 1800 952 766 or visit the website totalfire.com.au.

20 | SEPTEMBER 2021 Lockdown Advantages

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Contact us today 1800 807 740 • totalfire.com.au HBR health & safety Winners of the Hunter Safety Awards announced Following the postponement of the 2020 Hunter Safety Awards, 13 winners were announced in August across a range of organisational and individual categories. The Hunter’s biggest night in the WHS calendar was due to be held Friday 6 August at the Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX) - after being postponed from March 2020 - but was cancelled due to the latest COVID-19 restrictions. Hunter Safety Awards Founder, Sarah-Jane Dunford, said while the decision was devastating, it was the right thing to do. “As the leading safety event in the Hunter Region, we had to lead by example and made the heartbreaking decision to cancel the event,” Sarah-Jane said. “While the event was cancelled, we still wanted to recognise the hard work and achievements of the winners.” Now in its fifth year, the Awards recognised businesses across 13 different categories of health and safety, with a further exploration of mental health being evident across submitted entries. Major winners included Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group WHS Business of the Year Winner, NCIG (NCIG), who walked away with the prestigious ‘Gold’ Safety Chief Executive Officer, Aaron Johansen. Helmet in the WHS Business of the Year category. Sarah-Jane said NCIG’s dedication to implementing innovative health and wellbeing programs across their workplace was a key Finalists for the Hunter Safety Awards included: asset that stood out in their entry. “Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group’s entry demonstrated an Ampcontrol approach to safety that embraced all the important facets of WHS, Aqua Assets Pty Limited which is what gave them that award-winning factor,” Sarah-Jane said. ARTC “Their program ‘Move For Your Mind’ is a great example of how Asset Training the organisation are leading the way in their approach to safety.” Asplundh NCIG Chief Executive Officer, Aaron Johansen, said that it was Body and Mind 2000 an honour to be recognised in the Hunter for their approach to safety. Brimble Rail “It is an achievement that reflects the commitment shown to Carter Heavy Haulage & Transport Health and Safety by everyone on our site,” Aaron said. CHD Partners “Our Health and Safety culture at NCIG is driven by real passion Corfad Civil and Construction Pty Ltd and it is incredible to be a part of a workforce that enthusiastically Critical Alpha gets involved in programs rolled out on site. We are very proud of Daracon both our Safety Vitals Program and our Move for your Mind Ethos Health initiative that have contributed to this award. Great Lakes FM “We will continue to uphold the positive health and safety Hunter Valley Tours culture at NCIG as we see the benefits in our workplace every day.” Best Health & Wellbeing Program (Large Organisation) was John Holland Rail awarded to Daracon Group. Keolis Downer Their 12 week program, Workplace POWER (Preventing Obesity LabourCo Without Eating like a Rabbit) was an innovative, evidence-based Laing O'Rourke weight loss program developed by The University of Newcastle Mainstream Industries and Hunter Medical Research Institute. Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) Jenny Rudder of Singleton Council was awarded WHS Champion North Construction & Building of the Year for her dedication and commitment to her role as the Norsu Group Work, Health and Safety Advisor for the Council. Novaskill Laing O’Rourke was awarded Most Innovative WHS Idea (Large Organisation) for developing Toolbox Spotter, a world- Novecom leading artificial intelligence computer vision system which was Programmed optimised for heavy industries. Safe Industries Australia The judges were impressed by the dedication and innovation Singleton Council every finalist and winner showed in their entries. Tony White Group While the awards were unable to go ahead this year, the 2022 Warner Company Hunter Safety Awards will be held on Friday 19 March 2022. WesTrac Tickets will be on sale soon.

22 | SEPTEMBER 2021 It’s our people that make all the difference.

NCIG’s safety culture is built on real passion by our employees and contractors. We wish to thank them for their commitment to upholding the positive health and safety values we all embrace each and every day.

Winner, Hunter Safety Awards ‘Gold Helmet’ Business of the Year.

www.ncig.com.au HBR health & safety

The full list of winners were:

AWARD SPONSOR WINNER

WHS Business of the Year AGL NCIG Best Health and Wellbeing Program Sonic HealthPlus Daracon (Large Organisation) Best Health and Wellbeing Program Tomago Aluminium Body and Mind 2000 (SME) Best WHS Improvement ARTC WesTrac (Large Organisation) Best WHS Improvement Ampcontrol Norsu Group (SME) Best WHS Management System Red Insight Asplundh (Large Organisation) Best WHS Management System One Touch Contractors Mainstream Industries (SME) Most Innovative WHS Idea WesTrac Laing O’Rourke (Large Organisation) Most Innovative WHS Idea 3M Novecom (SME) WHS Student of the Year AGL Jamie Collins, Glencore WHS Champion of the Year University of Newcastle Jenny Rudder, Singleton Council Young WHS Leader of the Year uvex Aaron Jones Best WHS Training Program Hume Doors Ethos Health

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T 02 6578 7290 E [email protected] W singleton.nsw.gov.au

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24 | SEPTEMBER 2021 AWARD SPONSOR WINNER

WHS Business of the Year AGL NCIG Best Health and Wellbeing Program Sonic HealthPlus Daracon (Large Organisation) Reduce Downtime and Implement Measurable Strategies Best Health and Wellbeing Program Tomago Aluminium Body and Mind 2000 (SME) for Industrial Plant and Equipment Maintenance Best WHS Improvement ARTC WesTrac (Large Organisation) Best WHS Improvement Ampcontrol Norsu Group (SME) Best WHS Management System Red Insight Asplundh (Large Organisation) Best WHS Management System One Touch Contractors Mainstream Industries (SME) Most Innovative WHS Idea WesTrac Laing O’Rourke (Large Organisation) Most Innovative WHS Idea 3M Novecom (SME) WHS Student of the Year AGL Jamie Collins, Glencore WHS Champion of the Year University of Newcastle Jenny Rudder, Singleton Council Young WHS Leader of the Year uvex Aaron Jones Best WHS Training Program Hume Doors Ethos Health

Proud winners Don’t let downtime affect your of the Best WHS operations. With the support of our Improvement flexible team, you’re aligned with problem (SME) Award at solvers who move quickly to improve the the Hunter financial and environmental performance Safety Awards of your site.

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Norsu Group Pty Ltd Norsu Group - Winner of Best WHS Improvement (SME) award Bayswater Power Station, New England Hwy, Muswellbrook NSW 2333 P: (02) 4067 5052 E: [email protected] W: www.norsugroup.com.au HBR mining & energy update

THE ONGOING SPREAD OF COVID-19 IS A STARK REMINDER TO ALL OF US OF THE NEED TO BE VIGILANT

Stephen Galilee CEO, NSW Minerals Council

First and foremost, we need to continue to protect the health and safety of our workforce and our mining communities. This also enables us to continue making the economic contribution so many people rely upon. Health and safety is the NSW mining industry’s number one priority and our sector has implemented strict COVID-19 Protocols to help our mining workforce, mining families and regional communities stay safe during this challenging time. Our industry is also working closely with the NSW and Commonwealth Governments, regulators and other resource industry associations to minimise the risk of COVID-19 in mining communities.

Mining operations have implemented extensive workforce protection measures, in line with advice from NSW Health, which includes enhanced cleaning and sanitation facilities, work from home policies implemented where possible, social distancing in crib rooms and essential indoor areas and strict restrictions on visitors and workers from the Greater Sydney area. We also strongly encourage everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible. These measures help to protect people and communities. They also help the economy. Our local mining industry remains in a good position to help rebuild our state and support communities across the Hunter region. Working together, we can ensure the Hunter emerges from this latest challenge with a strong and reliable economic base that will provide jobs and investment for decades to come.

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26 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR mining & energy update

NSW PUTS FOOT ON THE GREEN organisations can get involved by contacting the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s, Hydrogen and Clean GAS WITH HYDROGEN PLATFORM Energy team at [email protected].

The rollout of NSW hydrogen hubs is set to be accelerated, with the establishment of a collaboration platform to bring together potential hydrogen producers and users. Energy Minister Matt Kean said the platform is about connecting AUSTRALIAN MINING EXPORTS sophisticated market players with new and emerging hydrogen SET NEW RECORDS users to fuel the development of hydrogen hubs in NSW. “Green hydrogen will play a massive role in our future economic Australian mining has continued to support the prosperity and decarbonising our economy,” Mr Kean said. nation’s export and economic success with new records “We know that the best way to make green hydrogen set for total export value and a range of mineral commercially viable in Australia and NSW is to get to scale as commodities. quickly as possible. New export data released on 5 August by the “We also know our hydrogen hubs have the potential to become Australian Bureau of Statistics for the 2020/21 full clean manufacturing powerhouses and we need to move fast, but financial year show the extraordinary magnitude and that challenge is too big for one business alone. resilience of Australia’s mining exports. “That is why we are bringing decision-makers and investors who The mining industry has generated a new record want to deploy hydrogen into their businesses and industries high of almost $300 billion in export revenue for the together to help deliver hydrogen in a way that will drive scale, reduce Australian economy. costs, focus innovation and grow our workforce capabilities.” The array of new records set includes: Australian Hydrogen Council Chief Executive Officer, Fiona • Record resources exports of $299.6 billion Simon, said “NSW’s hydrogen collaboration platform is a great tool (including minerals, coal, metals, oil and gas) to drive industry development and hub creation in NSW. It will • A record high trade surplus of $89 billion bring organisations together to collaborate on NSW’s hydrogen • The highest ever share of export revenue future.” contributed by resources (66 per cent) As part of the Net Zero Industry and Innovation Program, the • Record iron ore exports of $151.9 billion, 33 per NSW Government has committed a minimum of $70 million to cent of total export revenue develop hydrogen hubs in the Hunter and Illawarra regions. • Record gold exports of $28.4 billion Stakeholders that submitted a hydrogen-related registration • Record copper exports of $11.5 billion. of interest to the Net Zero Industry and Innovation Program will automatically receive an invitation to participate. Other

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SEPTEMBER 2021 | 27 HBR mining & energy update

CSIRO ENERGY SITE TO LEAD EMISSIONS TARGET

CSIRO's Newcastle Energy Centre will be a demonstration site for the national science agency’s net zero emissions targets, as part of a broader focus to boost science and sustainability outcomes across its facilities and operations. A decade after CSIRO and collaborators designed, built and verified Australia’s first zero emission house, CSIRO is aiming to achieve net zero emissions for: its Newcastle Energy Centre by “We have the opportunity to take the best of our science and 2025, all of CSIRO by 2030, and all of its indirect emissions and testing and apply it across our site which already features 425 kW value chains by 2050. of solar and wind energy infrastructure, and 600 kWh of battery CSIRO Chief Executive Larry Marshall said CSIRO is uniquely storage. positioned to use breakthrough science to develop, implement “New initiatives that will help us to achieve net zero by 2025 and demonstrate effective pathways to net zero emissions. include the conversion of gas systems to electric, electrification “As a large 100 year old organisation spread across 55 sites of our fleet, additional onsite renewable energy generation, nationally, CSIRO has many challenges to emissions reduction, optimised control of onsite energy storage, and the uptake of but we believe if we can do it, it will inspire other large clean-energy power purchasing across all of our sites.” companies to leverage Australian science to travel the path to The energy targets are part of a broader sustainability refresh for net zero emissions," Dr Marshall said. CSIRO, which brings together plans to reduce its environmental “CSIRO is in a strong position to make science real, by footprint and initiatives focussed on organisational culture, gender translating it straight from our established energy lab and equity, responsible purchasing and sustainable property strategies. into our operations, while also directly assisting our industry partners to work towards their own net zero emission ambitions. “CSIRO has been actively reducing its carbon emissions over the last five years, and we are now anticipating 70 per cent SANDVIK ACQUIRES DSI reduction." UNDERGROUND JOINT VENTURES, “Australian science can accelerate this transformation using cutting edge technologies in solar, wind, hydrogen, next ROCBOLT TECHNOLOGIES generation batteries, predictive analytics and energy efficiency Sandvik’s acquisition of DSI Underground, the global leader technologies, and of course our corporate fleet of electric in ground support and reinforcement products, systems vehicles with on-site solar charging, and a hydrogen-powered and solutions for the underground mining and tunneling car,” Dr Marshall said. industries, was closed in July. The acquisition included DSI’s “CSIRO also manages many of Australia’s landmark national ownership stake in four joint ventures (Rocbolt Technologies) facilities which serve the entire research sector. Our longer-term based in China, South Africa, Mongolia and Australia. plans will really put our science to the test as we try to transition On August 3, 2021, Sandvik signed and completed three this critical national infrastructure, like our national collections agreements to acquire the Joint Venture partner’s (Jennmar) and the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, towards net share of the Rocbolt Technologies JVs in China, South Africa zero emissions. and Mongolia. Jennmar will continue to be a JV partner in “We are exploring innovative options such as using hydrogen Australia. to power future research vessels or applying renewable or Rocbolt Technologies will be reported in the Ground Support hybrid energy to power remote facilities.” Division of business area Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions. CSIRO Newcastle Site Leader Gregory Wilson said the The DSI acquisition, including purchase price allocation, Newcastle Energy Centre was ideally placed to lead the way for accounting treatments related to the acquisition, and full CSIRO. consolidation of the three JVs, will in total be dilutive to the “Our Newcastle Energy Centre has an established track record EBIT margin for Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions by up to for developing and evaluating new ways to drive energy 300 basis points during the second half of 2021. In 2022 the efficiency, generate renewable energy, store energy and reduce EBIT margin for Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions will be emissions. It is also home to the largest solar thermal array of its diluted around 170 basis points. kind in the Southern Hemisphere,” Dr Wilson said.

28 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR mining & energy update

Ampcontrol and PPK Mining equipment introduce electric vehicle

A new agreement between two innovative Australian manufacturing and technology companies is set to deliver a range of new battery-electric vehicle (BEV) solutions for underground mining applications. The collaboration will see the installation of the latest world- class BEV technology designed by Ampcontrol into new PPK Mining Equipment (PPKME) personnel carrier vehicles. The companies will work together to also retrofit diesel drive trains in a range of other vehicles manufactured by PPKME, including the COALTRAM flameproof and explosion protected diesel Load Haul Dump utility vehicle. PPKME Global Head of Mining Dale McNamara said, "This is The new battery-electric personnel carrier vehicle for the underground coal industry a fantastic opportunity to combine our respective industry expertise to introduce the first new Australian designed and built battery-electric personnel carrier vehicle for the underground Commenting on potential further opportunities, PPK Group coal industry. Expanding our relationship to install Ampcontrol Ltd Executive Chairman Robin Levison also added, "Given the BEV technology into our COALTRAM utility vehicles will proximity of Ampcontrol and PPKME workshops within the substantially benefit our customers and employees by developing Hunter region of NSW, the geographical spread of customers new vehicles for all underground mines." and distinct areas of expertise, I see this unique "electrification Ampcontrol BEV technology builds upon the company's project" as the first step on a broader collaboration opportunity expertise and industry reputation, centred around developing between Ampcontrol, PPK Group and our subsidiary company engineering solutions for use in hazardous environments, LIS Energy Ltd. LIS Energy continues to commercialise its including underground coal mines. proprietary Lithium Sulphur battery technology through its joint "We are thrilled to be working with the team at PPK Mining venture research agreement with Deakin University; we are very Equipment to power their fleet of industry-renowned enthusiastic about the potential future opportunities this project underground vehicles. Our new BEV technology lets our partners could present." and customers power their existing equipment, converting "We are looking forward to developing a strong association from diesel to battery-electric energy, and new vehicles under between PPKME and Ampcontrol, combining our engineering development with a solution where safety and efficiency are expertise, advanced technology solutions, and world-class absolutely paramount," added Ampcontrol Managing Director & manufacturing to deliver the future in battery electric vehicles for CEO Rod Henderson. our industry," added Rod Henderson.

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30 | SEPTEMBER 2021 HBR funny business The doctor says, “Larry, everything looks great. How “No problem,” the sales clerk answered. “Just keep your right are you doing mentally and emotionally? Are you at knee bent a little at all times, walk like this, and no one will notice. peace with God?” That’s why this suit is only thirty dollars.” Larry replies, “God and I are tight. He knows I have Finally, the fellow bought the suit, cocked his left shoulder into poor eyesight, so He’s fixed it so when I get up in the the air, tucked the suit’s left lapel under his chin, bent his right middle of the night to go to the bathroom, poof! The knee, and limped out of the store toward his car. light goes on. When I’m done, poof! The light goes off.” Two doctors happened along and noticed him. “Good heavens,” Wow, that’s incredible,” the doctor says. the first doctor said to the second, “look at that poor crippled A little later in the day, the doctor calls Larry’s wife. fellow.” “Bonnie,” he says, “Larry is doing fine! But I had to “Yeah,” answered the second doctor. “But doesn’t that suit fit great?” call you because I’m in awe of his relationship with God. Is it true that he gets up during the night, and poof, the light goes on in the bathroom, and when he’s done, poof, the light goes off?” A skeleton walks into a bar. “Oh, no,” exclaims Bonnie. “He’s peeing in the refrigerator again!” The bartender says, “What’ll you have?” The skeleton says, “Gimme a beer and a mop.”

A man walks into a library and asks the librarian for books about paranoia. A Canadian park ranger is giving some ramblers a warning She whispers, "They're right behind you!" about bears, “Brown bears are usually harmless. They avoid contact with humans so we suggest you attach small bells to your rucksacks and give the bears time to get out of your way. A poodle and a collie are walking together when the poodle However, grizzly bears are extremely dangerous. If you see any suddenly unloads on his friend. “My life is a mess,” he says. “My grizzly-bear droppings leave the area immediately.” owner is mean, my girlfriend ran away with a schnauzer, and I’m “So how do we know if they’re grizzly bear droppings?” asks one as jittery as a cat.” of the ramblers. “Why don’t you go see a psychiatrist?” suggests the collie. “It’s easy,” replies the ranger. “They’re full of small bells.” “I can’t,” says the poodle. “I’m not allowed on the couch.”

A man was being sold a very cheap suit. “But the left arm is a lot longer than the right arm,” he complained. QUOTE OF THE MONTH “That’s why the suit is such a bargain,” the sales clerk explained. “Many of life's failures are people who did not realise how “Just cock your left shoulder up a little, like this, and tuck this left close they were to success when they gave up" lapel under your chin a bit, like this.” - Thomas Edison “But the right leg is way too short,” argued the customer.

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